×

How to Clean Vintage Aluminium Pots and Pans

April Ort

Vintage aluminum pots and pans can acquire stains and clouding from repeated use. There are, however, some common household items and simple techniques that can help fade or remove stains as well as bring luster back to your vintage cookware.

  1. Combine 2 tbsp cream of tarter with 1 qt. water inside the pan you want cleaned.

  2. Heat the pan and mixture on a stove top set at medium heat.

  3. Bring the mixture to a boil.

  4. Reduce heat and allow to simmer for 10 minutes.

  5. Empty the contents of the pan and wash the inside of the pan with a steel wool pad saturated in liquid soap.

  6. Polish the pan by boiling a mixture of 2 tbsp lemon juice with 1 qt. water for 10 minutes inside the pan.

  7. Empty the pan, then rinse it under warm water.

  8. Finish polishing the pan by using the soapy steel wool scouring pad again. Use back and forth strokes rather than circular motions to bring out the shine.